Understanding Your IRS Notice or Letter

Written By Evolution Tax

The cause for the contact will be explained in your notice or letter, along with guidance on how to manage the situation.

There is no need to contact IRS if you agree with the information.

If the notice or letter appears to be suspicious, please contact IRS at 800-829-1040. If youir think the notice or letter is fake, follow the IRS's instructions or go to IRS Report Phishing page for further information.

For additional information on how to receive a Braille or large print copy of your IRS notice or letter, go to the Information About the Alternative Media Center website.

Why did the IRS send me a notice?

Notices and letters from the IRS are sent for the following reasons:

  1. There is a balance owed to you.

  2. A larger or smaller refund is due to you.

  3. IRS have a tax-related inquiry for you.

  4. IRS need to make sure you're who you say you are.

  5. IRS require more information.

  6. Your return has been altered.

  7. IRS need to let you know if there are any delays in processing your refund.

Steps to take next

  1. Read

  • Because each notification or letter offers a wealth of information, it's critical that you read it carefully. Compare the information we gave in the notification or letter with the information in your original return if we altered your tax return.

  1. Respond

  • If your notification or letter requests a response by a certain date, you should comply for two reasons:

    to avoid paying more interest and penalties

    If you don't agree, to keep your appeal rights.

Pay as much as you can, even if you can't pay off the entire balance. You can make a payment or apply for an Online Payment Agreement or a Compromise Offer online. For additional information, see IRS payment page.

Keep a copy of your notification or letter for your records.

It's critical to maintain a copy of any notices or letters you get with your tax documents. You could need these documents in the future.

Please get in touch with IRS.

You should contact IRS only if you disagree with the information, if IRS requested further information, or if you owe IRS money. You can also send a letter at the address listed on the notice or letter. Allow at least 30 days for a response if you write.

The notification or letter number's position

Your correspondence's notice (CP) or letter (LTR) number can be found in the top or bottom right-hand corner.

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